Mac Rebennack’s been around and the music, the culture, the people…they’ve embellished his art with a character like no other in roots music. He’s known them all: James Booker, Professor Longhair, Huey Smith, and Doc Pomus. He’s performed with them, composed for them, and broken bread with them. And when he takes the stage, whether that is in the traditional Indian celebratory garb or the frocked coat and hat, you can be certain that his performance will get your attention. He is coarse yet gentle, as punctual on the keys as he is laid back and lazy with them. This week’s show will sample a small set of his contributions to the American songbook including performances by Roland Stone, B.B. King, Charlie Rich, Solomon Burke, and Irma Thomas. And we’ll also hear plenty from the good Doctor himself.
